Yuma Kagiyama: “Four years ago, jumps were the main focus. But now, as an artistic sport, I’ve come to believe it’s important to deliver a performance that remains in people’s hearts as a work of art.”
Yuma Kagiyama on this approach for his second Olympics Games.
original source: number.bunshun.jp dd. 9th January 2026 by Yoshie Noguchi
Yuma Kagiyama has redefined his approach for his second Olympics, collaborating with pianist Hayato Sumino to create a unique exhibition program that blends artistry and athleticism. Here’s a translation of his comments posted on Sports Graphic Number Web.
“My values and perspective on figure skating have changed a lot over the four years since the Beijing Olympics. Four years ago, jumps were the main focus. But now, as an artistic sport, I’ve come to believe it’s important to deliver a performance that remains in people’s hearts as a work of art.”
Now 22, Kagiyama began his second Olympic season by questioning himself. After winning the 2024 Nationals and becoming the undisputed ace of Japanese men’s skating, he also experienced the pressure and a slump that came with it. Unlike four years ago, when he simply threw himself into the Olympics, this time he felt he had to envision and realize the kind of performance he truly wanted.
“Four years ago, I enjoyed the Olympics while watching my seniors. Yuzuru Hanyu was the ideal ‘athlete,’ always striving for victory and showing perfection in his actions. Shoma Uno led by example, showing how everyone could push each other to become stronger and connecting the current skating world.”
He then turned his focus inward. “Last season, I thought there was a certain way an ace should be. But after thinking and interpreting things for myself, I now believe it’s important to perform naturally, with confidence, and to show what I’ve worked on. I don’t need to force myself into a fixed image of an ace – my strength comes from being myself.”
“Before competitions, whether I’m napping or on the bus to the venue, I imagine not just the performance but even things like, ‘Today I’ll do a double fist pump,’ or waving to the audience.”
At the Milan Olympic venue, Kagiyama visualizes stepping onto the ice, performing, celebrating, and skating in the exhibition as a medalist. He decided to make the exhibition even more special and authentic by commissioning an original piece of music.
“I’ll be collaborating with pianist Hayato Sumino to create an original number for the exhibition. It’s my first time having a piece composed from scratch, and I’m looking forward to creating a truly one-of-a-kind program.”
Kagiyama shared two key words with Sumino during an online meeting: “a sense of celebration” and “a feeling of speed.”
“He wanted something light and uplifting, building to a climax at the end, rather than a heavy piece.” Sumino said. “Kagiyama said, ‘There are rules in competition, but in the exhibition, I want to move freely and feel the joy of being released from scoring.’”
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